Ben Kiengei, born Benson Gathungu Kamau, is a pastor, comedian, media personality, and founder of Jesus Compassion Ministry (JCM), a fast-growing church that recently hosted President William Rut0, drawing fresh attention to his national influence.
Kiengei won the hearts of young Kenyans (Gen Z) when they took to the streets in large numbers to reject the controversial Finance Bill 2024, by openly speaking out against the government and criticizing the authorities for their harsh responses.
Ben Kiengei’s Background and Education
Ben Kiengei, also known as Muthee Kiengei, was born on January 22, 1986, in Nakuru County. He was born into a modest background in Nakuru as the youngest of nine siblings. His parents worked at a sawmill but retired around the time he was born.
In some of his publicly shared stories, the now head of JCM has narrated how he grew up in a polygamous family with up to 18 children across different households and three parental figures.
Kiengei’s education journey started at Maji Mazuri Forest Primary School (also known as Majimazuri). He then attended Tumaini Secondary School but had to drop out in form two due to financial difficulties.
Also Read: Muthee Kiengei Calls Out Network Provider After Signal Hitch During Fundraiser for Kaluma Boy
Kiengei’s Career
Before becoming a bishop, Kiengei made people laugh with his comedy shows in Nakuru and other towns in Kenya, using funny stories about everyday Kikuyu life. He became famous after joining Kameme FM, where he worked as a co-host of the popular Arahuka Morning Show.
His fun, down-to-earth style won over listeners across Central Kenya and beyond. He has also worked as a Master of Ceremonies at events, released gospel songs, and launched his own entertainment business, Kiengei Live.
In February 2023, he founded the Jesus Christ Compassion Ministries International (JCM) in Ruiru off the Eastern Bypass. The church has grown quickly, with more than 88 branches in Kenya and others abroad, including in the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Germany, and South Africa.
As the bishop, he leads the ministry while still appearing in the media.
From leaving school early and struggling financially, he turned his life around through hard work, faith, and talent. People admire him for his kind heart.
He often helps by paying school fees for kids, clearing hospital bills, organizing community events, and leading big fundraisers like the “Kaluma Boy” one, which received support from all over Kenya.
Also Read: Zahra Aga Khan: Profile of the Princess Awarded Kenya’s Second-Highest Honor by Ruto
Family
Bishop Ben Kiengei is married to Reverend Joyceline Ngaru (also called Reverend Joy Benson). They have two children together: a son, Arsene, and a daughter, June.
From his first marriage to media personality Keziah Kariuki (Keziah wa Kariuki), he has a daughter, Orpah Waithera (also known as Orpah Benson).
For the sake of their daughter, Kingei and Keziah share happy family moments and celebrate together, including birthdays.
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